KING KEV ABDICATES

Many predicted that Kevin Keegan’s second spell in charge of Newcastle United would end in tears, and so it has proved.

‘King Kev’ resigned as manager just four days after rumours first surfaced that all was not well at the North East club.

First it was reported that he’d been sacked, then that he had resigned. Both stories were denied by Newcastle and also by the League Managers Association. But high level talks, aimed at keeping both sides happy broke down on Thursday and Keegan’s 8 month spell in charge was at an end.

In a statement, released via the LMA, Keegan said: “I’ve been working desperately hard to find a way forward with the directors, but sadly that has not proved possible.

“It’s my opinion that a manager must have the right to manage and that clubs should not impose upon any manager any player that he does not want.

“It remains my fervent wish to see Newcastle United do well in the future and I feel incredibly sorry for the players, staff and most importantly the supporters.

“I have been left with no choice other than to leave.”

A Newcastle statement said the club was “sad and disappointed” that he had resigned.

It added: “Over the last few days, the club has devoted itself to the discussions it has held with Kevin and as a result of those discussions had put together a set of practical suggestions for how to move forward.

“The club made it clear to Kevin that if he had any outstanding concerns on its proposals, he should raise them with the club.

“The club regrets that Kevin has, instead of taking up that offer, chosen to resign.”

About 200 angry fans gathered outside the club’s St James’ Park ground on Thursday night after hearing of his departure.

They chanted Keegan’s name and called for club owner Mike Ashley and director of football Dennis Wise to quit. There has also been a call for fans to boycott the next home game.

His resignation continues the hot seat merry-go-round at St James’ Park, the club having employed 7 manager’s since Keegan’s first time in charge ended in 1997.